7 things I’ve learned since becoming a mom

In honor of my firstborn son turning 7 this month, I thought I’d share 7 things that I’ve learned since becoming a mom. Only seven years in, I’m no pro, but these things have gotten me to where I am — and they’re shaping me into the mom I want to be.

1. Naps are non-negotiable. If you know me, we’ve probably been late to some kind of event or holiday because of naps. It’s just one thing that we do not waver on because I want to set our family up for success as much as possible and make sure all their needs are met. Nowadays, my boys (who are seven and five) mostly do rest time (read or do a quiet activity in their room for at least an hour), but there are days where they still sleep. Not only does it help them avoid getting overtired and strung out by dinner time, but it also gives me a chance to recharge and have some “me time” to pray or even take a quick power nap some days.
2. It’s okay to admit that you were wrong. I screw up time and time again and have to apologize to my kids. I think it shows them that everyone makes mistakes and even their parents have to ask for forgiveness.
3. Children extend so much grace. When I lose my temper or snap at one of the kids, they’re so quick to forgive. They don’t hold grudges like adults, just simply forgive and move on. It is absolutely amazing and a picture of how God forgives us with out holding our sin against us.
4. Appreciate the small things. The everyday mundane is where most of our time as a family is spent. Of course the vacations and events are special but it is not where most of my memories are from. The other day I looked at my family and thought “They will never be exactly like this again” which is why I am constantly documenting our ever growing family.
5. Being a mom is HARD. Of course between the giggles, sibling relationships and love that we feel makes it all worth it but it doesn’t change that you are everything to everyone at all times — especially while you have a nursling! If I’m being honest (which I plan to be) the hardness of motherhood can sometimes bring out the ugly, sinful, and selfish parts of me.
6. It’s okay if your family’s priorities are different. For some reason, when I first became a mom, I used to feel this pressure to have our priorities and values to be like our friends and families. We have figured out what’s most important for our family and stick to that. There are probably some things that are really important to you but not to me. And guess what?! That’s okay! We’re all just trying to do what we see works best for our families and there’s no shame in that.
7. Last but not least, motherhood is such a gift. Joe and I often say aloud “Can you believe this is our life?!” We’re in awe of our four children and who they are becoming.

Thank you for reading my first blog post! I hope you enjoyed reading about the 7 things that I’ve learned since becoming a mom. Come back soon!

xoxo,

Tia

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